Full Breakdown
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers Vetoes Anti-LGBTQ+ and Voucher Expansion Bills
3/31/2026, 11:35:53 PM
Evers' Vetoes on Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation
On Transgender Day of Visibility, Democratic Governor Tony Evers of Wisconsin vetoed five bills aimed at restricting the rights of transgender individuals, despite a Republican-controlled legislature. Evers has consistently pledged to veto any legislation that he believes undermines the safety and inclusivity of LGBTQ+ individuals in Wisconsin. In a private ceremony at the state Capitol, he stated, “My promise has always been that I will veto any bill that makes Wisconsin a less safe, less inclusive, and less welcoming place for LGBTQ people and kids.”
Among the vetoed bills were AB 100 and AB 102, which sought to ban transgender girls from competing in sports teams that align with their gender identity. These bills would have classified athletic teams by sex at birth, affecting a wide range of activities from traditional sports to events like chess. Evers criticized these measures as codifying discrimination, asserting that “LGBTQ kids, including transgender and gender nonconforming kids, deserve our love, respect, and support just like any other kid.”
Another bill, AB 103, would have mandated that school staff refrain from using names or pronouns that do not align with a student's biological sex without parental consent, which Evers argued could lead to forced outings of transgender youth in unsupportive households. The remaining bills targeted healthcare providers, aiming to restrict gender-affirming care for minors.
Opposition to Evers' Vetoes
Critics of Evers' vetoes, including Republican lawmakers, expressed disappointment, arguing that the vetoed bills were necessary for protecting parental rights and ensuring fairness in sports. They contend that Evers' actions prioritize political agendas over the welfare of children. For instance, Republican Assembly member Jessie Rodriguez stated that the veto would prevent Wisconsin students from accessing more scholarship opportunities for educational expenses.
Evers' Veto of Voucher Expansion Legislation
In addition to the anti-LGBTQ+ bills, Governor Evers vetoed legislation that would have required Wisconsin to opt into a federal program promoting donations to private school scholarships, part of the "Big Beautiful Bill" passed by Congress. Evers argued that the program would expand private school vouchers without adequate oversight or accountability, stating, “This nationwide voucher program has no student achievement metrics, no school accountability measures, and no cap on how much the federal government can spend.”
He emphasized that public funds should be directed toward public education, citing concerns that the program would drain resources from public schools, which are already facing funding challenges. Evers noted that Wisconsin has a long history with voucher programs and expressed skepticism about their benefits to public education.
Conclusion
Governor Evers' recent vetoes reflect his commitment to protecting LGBTQ+ rights and maintaining the integrity of public education in Wisconsin. His actions have garnered support from advocacy groups like Fair Wisconsin, which praised his efforts to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all students. However, the vetoes have also sparked significant opposition from Republican lawmakers, who argue that they hinder educational opportunities and parental rights. As Wisconsin approaches a new election cycle, the future of these contentious issues remains uncertain.
